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Initial Thought: Well I am continuing on with the Psycho series. It is kind of sad that the producers thought it necessary to dish out sequels to a masterpiece. The one good thing though is seeing more of our sympathetic serial killer. I don't think people can say that too often. Anyways on with the show.
Characters/Acting: Anthony Perkins continue his legendary role as Norman Bates. Several people from part two return again as well including Sheriff Hunt, Myrna, and Statler. Claudia Bryar only appears in archive footage. Virginia Gregg once again lends her voice as Norma Bates. Jeff Fahey is the only new cast member I immediately recognize. He plays one of the sleaziest most unlikeable characters here. Throughout the film you just wish Norman would take notice and off him. I really liked that Maureen was a blonde. It was obviously an intentional homage to Hitchcock.
Story: It isn't too long after the events of part two and Norman Bates is of course still running his motel. He employs someone to help him with caretaking while he gets a new young guest. Soon he has troubles when a reporter begins questioning his past. It starts out with a scene that seems to mirror a church scene in another film. I liked the transition styles that were done throughout the movie. I thought that was a pretty unique style and definitely admirable from someone who has no prior directing skills. I thought the bedroom scene with Jeff Fahey was a bit odd. It doesn't seem very sexy to rub cigarettes along yourself. There are only a few good twists this time around. The death scenes were pretty good as well too. That was a crazy ending for sure. I thought it fit perfectly within the Bates mythos.
Directing/Writing: This is also only based on the characters by Robert Bloch. This is the first of only two films directed by main star Anthony Perkins. From what I know he didn't feel as if he was right for the director's chair, but decided to give it a shot nonetheless. Charles Edward Pogue brought us the 1986 version of The Fly as well as Dragonheart. Both of which happen to be quite good.
Final Thought: This wasn't all that bad actually. It had it's faults throughout though. The ending I thought was done quite well and I loved the added touch that reminded me of part one. It paid some good homage to that in some respects. Anyways it isn't the best one, but it's still pretty enjoyable. I recommend it for Norman Bates fans for sure.
